I just got a computer scan because my 2003 Vue, 6 cylinder, had the 'service engine soon' light on and it failed emissions. The p0128 code is on the problem description. The mechanic reset the computer and the light went off for a little while. It had been on and went off on its own before. He gave me an estimate of $500 to replace the coolant thermostat as that is the problem he said. The dealer said it may just be the sensor. Any advice would help me out a lot. I just got a computer scan because my 2003 Vue, 6 cylinder, had the 'service engine soon' light on and it failed emissions. The p0128 code is on the problem description. The mechanic reset the computer and the light went off for a little while. It had been on and went off on its own before. He gave me an estimate of $500 to replace the coolant thermostat as that is the problem he said. The dealer said it may just be the sensor. Any advice would help me out a lot.

Its on the drivers side of the engine below the intake manifold. Why do you want to replace it? I have worked with the VUE since day one and I have yet to see a bad coolant temp sensor. If you are having trouble with the engine temperature or the amount of heat in the car a very common cause is the thermostat sticking open and not alowing the engine to reach operating temperature. The most common telltale to this condition is usually the service engine soon light is on with a p0128 code stored in the PCM.

Tell us some more! Your answer needs to include more details to help people.You can't post answers that contain an email address.Please enter a valid email address.The email address entered is already associated to an account.Login to postPlease use English characters only.

Related Questions:

Sarah, The Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor on your Kia is located below rad hose driver side by exhaust manifold. May be a good time to flush coolant system when changing sensor.
Check the attached links,instruction and guides, Good luck
"I hope this helped you out, if so let me know by pressing the helpful button. Check out some of my other posts if you need more tips and info."How to Replace Lower Engine Coolant Sensor

Hi Janice , Before I say where the coolant temp. sensor is I'd just like to make you aware of a couple of thing's before you replace this sensor needlessly .It's one thing if you have a DTC diagnostic trouble code for the sensor but another if your temp. gauge isn't work ! You see the coolant temp. sensor is an input to the engine computer , not directly to the temp. gauge.
The instrument panel cluster (IPC) displays the engine coolant temperature as determined by the engine control module (ECM). The IPC receives a serial data message from the ECM indicating the engine coolant temperature. The engine coolant temperature gage defaults to 100°F (40°C) or below if:
?€¢
The ECM detects a malfunction in the engine coolant temperature sensor circuit.

?€¢
The IPC detects a loss of serial data communications with the ECM.

Have the coolant temperature sensor checked or replace.
That sensor is tied in with the cooling fans. When the coolant temp increases it turns on the fan.
It is usually located around the thermostat housing or screwed into the engine block with a 2 or 3 wire connector on it.

Follow the top radiator hose to where it meets the engine. This is known as the thermostat housing, the sensor will be either screwed into that (also look on the underside the housing) or within 4" of the housing.

It is the standard place for that sensor as it is the hottest water point of an engine.